News Release
-- December 18, 2017

Rijswijk, the Netherlands, December 18, 2017 — DXC Technology (NYSE: DXC), the world’s leading independent, end-to-end IT services company, has signed an agreement with AkzoNobel (AMS: AKZA), an international leading paints and coating company and an important manufacturer of specialized chemicals.

Under the five-year contract, DXC will transform and manage AkzoNobel’s local area networks (LANs) in all of its 1,200 locations in more than 80 countries. The next-generation network brings value by improving efficiencies and laying a foundation for future digital initiatives and innovation.

The implementation of the next-generation Aruba-based LANs, which will serve about 45,000 employees in factories, shops and offices, is an important step in the digital transformation of AkzoNobel. By connecting different devices and sensors in factories and stores, the new environment provides opportunities for “internet of things” (IoT) applications, like analyzing temperatures, speed and maintenance needs in production environments.

AAA workplace

This next-generation network will be an important building block for AkzoNobel in realizing a AAA workplace, where employees can connect and work anytime, anywhere and on any device, while ensuring the security of the enterprise. Intelligent Wi-Fi access points will give employees automated configuration everywhere these will be installed. AkzoNobel users will benefit from auto-connection between their devices and presentation devices in meeting rooms. When entering a meeting room, they’ll no longer need any cables or special settings; everything will happen automatically.

“The AkzoNobel IT department would like to facilitate the demands of the employees to have more choice over where or how they work and the need to keep this enterprise secure. Achieving this balance while providing employees a predictable and satisfying work environment requires a solution that is designed and managed for this purpose,” states Hans Klopper, client executive at DXC Technology.

DXC Technology will roll out LAN management for all AkzoNobel locations globally. In parallel and based on AkzoNobel’s business demand, they will transform the network for all sites, ranging from large offices and production plants to AkzoNobel shops, towards a global unified architecture based on Aruba technology.

“AkzoNobel has a complex global network infrastructure including mixed technologies, multiple vendors and not yet a first quartile cost position in this area. To co-create business value and growth, DXC Technology helps us to move to a cyber resilient, automated, first quartile (on cost and quality) and intelligent network to better manage end-to-end the complexities of mobile applications, internet of things and growing data analytics to support the modern workplace,” says Aloys Kregting, CIO of AkzoNobel.

The future network infrastructure will be provided in an “as-a-service” manner, with AkzoNobel no longer retaining these assets. The model offers maximum flexibility to align transformation pace and volumes to the business needs. It also improves IT expense ratios and accommodates business divestments and potential acquisitions.

The combination of LAN management with end user workplace services — already provided for eight years by DXC Technology — will further improve reliability of end-to-end services to support AkzoNobel in its digital transformation to faster, more effective ways of working.

“We are very pleased that our long-standing client AkzoNobel has selected DXC Technology to transform their network capabilities. DXC’s network infrastructure modernization and services provide a critical element in realizing Smart Connected Manufacturing, the total integration of plants, processes, products and people across the digital ecosystem. DXC is proud to be guiding AkzoNobel on its digital transformation journey,” says Martin Rainer, Manufacturing Industry leader and general manager, North and Central Europe, at DXC Technology.

About AkzoNobel

AkzoNobel creates everyday essentials to make people’s lives more liveable and inspiring. As a leading global paints and coatings company and a major producer of specialty chemicals, we supply essential ingredients, essential protection and essential color to industries and consumers worldwide. Backed by a pioneering heritage, our innovative products and sustainable technologies are designed to meet the growing demands of our fast-changing planet, while making life easier. Headquartered in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, we have approximately 45,000 people in around 80 countries, while our portfolio includes well-known brands such as Dulux, Sikkens, International, Interpon and Eka. Consistently ranked as a leader in sustainability, we are dedicated to energizing cities and communities while creating a protected, colorful world where life is improved by what we do.

About DXC Technology

DXC Technology (DXC: NYSE) is the world’s leading independent, end-to-end IT services company, helping clients harness the power of innovation to thrive on change. Created by the merger of CSC and the Enterprise Services business of Hewlett Packard Enterprise, DXC Technology serves nearly 6,000 private and public sector clients across 70 countries. The company’s technology independence, global talent and extensive partner network combine to deliver powerful next-generation IT services and solutions. DXC Technology is recognized among the best corporate citizens globally. For more information, visit www.dxc.technology/nl.